“Sometimes it’s the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.” – Keri Russell
Every significant, major change that we make in our lives is the result of a long series of small changes.
Consider these examples of how small steps lead to lifelong changes:
- Quitting smoking starts by not lighting up that next cigarette.
- Losing weight begins by turning down one more spoonful.
- Decluttering your home starts by removing one unnecessary item from your home.
- Getting out of debt starts by purchasing one less thing.
- Starting a business begins with one idea.
- Saving your marriage starts with the realization that it was worth saving.
Studies show that one of the ways to fuel the big changes we want in our lives is to notice and celebrate the small victories we’re making along the way.
Our lives are not measured by the leaps and bounds as much as they are measured by the little steps and decisions that we make each day. We don’t always get to control the outcome, but we can make small changes to control our actions.
Of course, in this world of filtered influencers, fast food, instant downloads, get-rich-quick schemes, and never-ending media hype, those standing at the finish line often receive the praise, while those still on their journey are often overlooked.
As a result, those still on the journey believe they are failing because they don’t stand at the finish line yet. Our society doesn’t do a good job of lifting up those en route.
We must learn to adjust our thinking. Not just as a society, but firstly and most importantly, as individuals.
It is entirely appropriate to praise those who have successfully completed positive life change, of course. But we must also celebrate those still on their journey!
Every step forward is worthy of celebration. And when we see it in our own lives (or in the lives of others), we must call it what it is—a victory worthy of celebration!
The father who comes home and picks up his child rather than the remote control deserves celebration.
The alcoholic who chooses to attend one more AA meeting deserves celebration.
The husband drowning in debt who packs a lunch for work deserves celebration.
The consumer-driven wife who chooses to not buy that extra pair of shoes deserves celebration.
The swindler who earns his first honest dollar deserves celebration.
The man struggling with his weight that chooses to take the stairs deserves our celebration.
The anorexic who eats a full meal deserves our celebration.
The wealthy man who writes his first check to charity (no matter the amount) deserves our celebration.
The couple on brink of divorce that unselfishly sits down at the kitchen table to finally talk it over deserves celebration.
We all need grace. We all need patience. And we are a people in need of encouragement.
So let’s be quick to celebrate the little steps we are making.
Life is fully-lived in both big moments and small.
Anonymous says
In recovery from anorexia and literally just finished eating a difficult meal… Which is worth celebrating! Thank you for this.
Kathy says
Excellent post for Ash Wednesday
Angela says
So true. Little steps aren’t overwhelming. This reminds me of the tortoise and hare. Slowly wins the race. Thanks for the post Joshua.
Chris says
Yes!
Azra Shamsie says
I try to follow each of your guidelines in my daily life to be a better person
Joan says
Excellent!!!
Jo-Anne Cusack says
Very helpful article Joshua. We do all need a little grace.
Carol says
Great article and very true. These past 2 years I have added this step to my goals – recognizing just those small steps along the way that have even if slowly moved me forward. If we always keep looking up at the mountain before us, it may seem insurmountable. But if we look back to visualize the steps we have taken, we can feel good about how far we have already come.
Carolyn says
Beautifully said!
Elizabeth Payne says
This is such a great post! Words to live by. And to Judy, and her comment, “dull” is a matter of perception. I call it “peace of mind and soul.”
Judy says
I really liked this post, Joshua. I often get overwhelmed when things seem daunting… so I’ve learned to take life in small steps and it works great for me. Someone might look at my life and think it’s quite dull, but that’s the way I like it and everyday I accomplish something of value.
Robin Morrison says
As always, this post speaks to me. It can be hard to remember and celebrate the little decisions. The big picture can be awfully overwhelming, I need to remind myself more often of the little “wins”. The specific examples help me. Thank you, Joshua